Cyprus-Greece ferry link resumes for summer

The Cyprus-Greece ferry link has resumed for the season, with Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis saying she was pleased the service has been embraced so warmly.

The 'Daleela' ferry departed on its first trip to Pireaus from DP World Limassol’s terminal at Limassol port and is scheduled to arrive on the evening of 30 May. From there, it will depart in the early hours of 31 May to return to Cyprus, shortly before noon on the following day, thus completing the first itinerary of the season.

A total of 22 itineraries will be held this season, the last taking place from Limassol port on 1 September and returning on 3 September.

Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Deputy Minister of Shipping Hadjimanolis welcomed the start of the routes for the third consecutive year.

“This year, 'Daleela' passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy upgraded services in many areas," she added.

Hadjimanolis said that the increase in bookings, compared to the same period last year, "even before the first route started, confirms that the maritime passenger connection has achieved its purpose, offering an alternative mode of transport".

She called on passengers to comply with the regulations, which were posted on the contractor's website and to follow the instructions of the officers during security checks at Limassol port.

The Managing Director of contracting company Scandro Holding Ltd, Charalambos Manolis, who is travelling on Daleela's first summer route, told CNA that some minor problems have been overcome and "everything is ready".

"We hope that this year will end well," he continued, adding that as of last week, 8,500 bookings had been made, of which 6,600 were for passengers, 1,750 cars and 150 pets.

The numbers are up from 2023 and we are optimistic that people will continue to embrace the service, he added.